Log in using your preferred network:

Enter your Everyday Health log-in here:

Meningitis

Meningitis is an infection of the fluid (cerebrospinal fluid)
and tissues (meninges) that surround the brain and spinal cord. Meningitis is
usually caused by a virus or by bacteria.

Meningitis may start as
a complication of another illness, such as a sinus or ear infection, or from an
injury. Meningitis can be passed from person to person, and it can be mild or
dangerous. A meningococcal vaccine is recommended for certain age groups and
people with greater chances of getting infected. The vaccine helps prevent some
types of meningitis.

Fungus is a common cause of meningitis in
people with impaired immune systems (such as those with AIDS). In rare cases,
meningitis may be caused by a parasite or an unexpected reaction to a medicine.
Bacteria that cause meningitis can be passed from a pregnant woman to her baby
during childbirth.

Treatment depends on the cause of the infection
and how bad the illness is. Bacterial meningitis is usually more serious than
viral meningitis. It is a medical emergency if a person has:

A severe headache with stiff neck, fever,
nausea, and vomiting.

Severe sensitivity to light
(photophobia).

Extreme sleepiness.

Confusion,
restlessness, or irritability.

Changes in vision.

A
bulging soft spot (fontanelle) on a baby's head and the baby is not
crying.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use.
How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions

This site complies with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information:verify here.

Advertising Notice

This Site and third parties who place advertisements on this Site may collect and use information about
your visits to this Site and other websites in order to provide advertisements about goods and services of
interest to you. If you would like to obtain more information about these advertising practices and to make
choices about online behavioral advertising, please click here.